A baby swing can be a lifesaver for frazzled new parents. It can rock your baby to sleep and then continue this motion for a longer duration than you might be able to with your arms alone. Baby swings can also help babies fall back to sleep after they wake up during the night. This is because the swing can maintain their sleep association which helps them return to a deep and restful state.
But, as with any baby product there are some important safety guidelines to follow when using a baby swing. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies should not be left to sleep in any infant seating device including swings, bouncers, and car seats because these devices place them in a semi-upright position, which can lead to higher risks for SIDS. They should only spend short periods of time in these devices – no more than 20 minutes per day, and they should never be left unsupervised.
When choosing a baby swing, make sure it is the right size for your infant. Ensure that it has a sturdy base and is free of any sharp corners or edges that could potentially hurt your baby. It is also recommended that you purchase a swing that has a seat that will accommodate your infant as they grow. You may want to consider purchasing a swing that has additional features such as removable toys, music and different types of movement, especially if your infant is older than 6 months.
Keep in mind that many babies who love their swing are not actually overtired – it is simply a sleep association. You can try to break this association by putting your baby into a different sleeping spot once they are swaddled and comfortable in the swing. You can also give your baby a few minutes of supervised tummy time on a soft surface to build up their neck and core strength.
Another potential problem with baby swings is that they can cause parents to become overly reliant on them, and neglect other ways of soothing their child. You can avoid this by trying to vary your baby’s rocking setting, changing the audio settings and using the swing at different times of the day.
Lastly, as with any baby product it is always a good idea to register your baby swing so that you can be notified in the event of a recall. Additionally, you should always properly buckle your baby into the swing so that they cannot escape. Loose straps can lead to strangulation or injury. It is recommended that you use a harness that attaches at the waist and groin of your baby. If your baby is a sleeper in their swing, you should put a small piece of fabric such as an old T-shirt you no longer wear near the back of their head to smell like you and promote a sense of security. This will also prevent them from pulling on their hair or tangling themselves up in the straps.